“They're My Go-To People”: A Qualitative Study of Support Networks for People Recently Diagnosed With HIV in Queensland, Australia

Abstract

Support networks promote care engagement and prevent social isolation for people living with HIV (PLWH). This study examined the personal support networks of recently diagnosed PLWH and explored how these networks change over time. We developed qualitative social network maps with 10 recently diagnosed PLWH in Queensland and identified unique and dynamic support networks. Network changes over time were influenced by changing support needs and experiences of stigma. Some support networks grew, whereas others remained small and close-knit or became sparse. The pivotal role of peers for information and emotional support was revealed. Socially isolated PLWH also described substantial reliance on long-term professional support. Others described reasons why health professionals were excluded from support networks, revealing the importance of nonjudgmental attitudes and HIV literacy among health professionals. Facilitating ongoing links with peers and professionals are crucial strategies to help PLWH foster effective and sustainable networks for comprehensive long-term support.

Belonging, social connection and non‐clinical care: Experiences of HIV peer support among recently diagnosed people living with HIV in Australia

“…Our analysis highlights the important role of peer support for re- family and romantic/sexual partners (Hollingdrake et al, 2017;Power et al, 2021). Social connection plays an important role in adjusting to a positive HIV diagnosis and is associated with improved mental health, well-being and quality of life (Brener et al, 2020;Kendall & Rogers, 2007;Lyons & Heywood, 2016;Power et al, 2019).…”

“…Among our sample, social connection with other PLHIV was valued as an important aspect of peer support services. Previous research has shown that an HIV diagnosis is often associated with feelings of shame, fear of rejection, withdrawal from social life and loss of social connection with friends, family and romantic/sexual partners (Hollingdrake et al, 2017 ; Power et al, 2021 ). Social connection plays an important role in adjusting to a positive HIV diagnosis and is associated with improved mental health, well‐being and quality of life (Brener et al, 2020 ; Kendall & Rogers, 2007 ; Lyons & Heywood, 2016 ; Power et al, 2019 ).…”

“…Given this, it is important that referrals to HIV peer organisations occur at the initial diagnosis to best ascertain the most appropriate programs for those recently diagnosed. As adjusting to an HIV diagnosis is not a linear process (Hollingdrake et al, 2017 ), PLHIV may also benefit from peer support services, such as TIM, that allow for engagement when needed and at multiple points throughout the life trajectory of living with HIV. Given the complex and various needs of PLHIV, it is necessary for clinicians and peer support providers to work closely together to build referral pathways, relationships and shared models of care to best support PLHIV.…”